Warsaw falls 38-24 in 5A State Championship

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The Warsaw Tigers are looking for their first-ever state championship. They have served as the underdogs all season, defeating top-ranked teams like Concord, Lafayette Jefferson and Merrillville.

Now, they’re looking to make some noise in the 5A State Championship game.

8:21 left in the first quarter, Bo Polston passing to his left to Kasmir Hicks who completes the 38-yard run into the end zone, putting the Hawks up 7-0 early on.

Warsaw responded with Drew Sullivan rushing up the middle for a touchdown, tying the game at seven a piece.

Second quarter action saw a handoff to Fa'Rel Carter rushing four yards up the middle for the hawks, regaining the lead at 14-7.

With the clock winding down in the first half, Mason Smythe makes a 47-yard field goal, bringing the Tigers to within 14 points as they trail at halftime.

The Tigers not giving up yet in their fight for their first-ever state championship. Start of the second half, Brody Duncan rushed up the middle for a 61-yard gain, and the extra point kick made it a one-possession game.

The Hawks had other plans this time Carter again rushing for four yards up the middle for his second touchdown of the game, extending the Hawks' lead.

Jumping into the fourth quarter, Decatur leading 31-17. Carter breaking through the middle for a gain of 74 yards, for his third touchdown, extending the Hawks' lead to 38-17.

The Tigers, not giving up, making a final push as Sullivan completed a short 5-yard pass to Ethan Egolf for a touchdown, trailing 38-24.

However, it wasn’t a happily ever after for this Cinderella team as Warsaw fell short in their first state appearance, losing 38-24.

Warsaw finishes the season 10-4.